MikeWorldWide has named Mahen Gunaratna, the former chief strategy officer and communications director to Gov. Phil Murphy, as EVP of public affairs, the firm announced Thursday.
Gunaratna served in key roles throughout the Murphy administration and was instrumental in Murphy’s tenure leading the National Governors Association and Democratic Governors Association. He joined the administration after serving as a deputy communications director to New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio.
The appointment reflects MWW’s continued investment in senior leadership, crises, corporate advisory and public affairs capabilities as client demand accelerates across highly regulated and reputation-sensitive industries.
In his role, Gunaratna will advise organizations as they navigate complex challenges including policy environments, heightened scrutiny, crisis situations and reputational risk.
During his tenure in the Murphy Administration, Gunaratna operated at the center of some of the most visible and demanding governing challenges in modern history, including the COVID-19 pandemic and two full terms in office that resulted in nearly 2,500 bills signed into law.
MWW CEO Michael Kemper said Gunaratna’s experience sits at the intersection of policy, politics, media and culture – where public confidence is shaped in real time and strategic missteps carry immediate costs.
“Mahen has led in environments where the margin for error was small and expectations were exceptionally high,” Kempner said. “That perspective strengthens our ability to advise organizations facing complex decisions under intense public scrutiny.”
Over a more than 15-year career, Gunaratna has served at the highest levels of American public life, including three presidential campaigns, New York City Hall and the U.S. Congress.
Gunaratna said he’s looking forward to the challenge of a new role.
“Organizations today are evaluated rigorously and continuously,” he said. “MikeWorldWide is known for helping leaders act with confidence when the path forward is not obvious. I’m excited to join the firm and support clients through challenging and defining moments when clear vision and clear communication make all the difference.”
Gunaratna specializes in driving consistent, cohesive communications across multi-audience and multi-platform initiatives, translating complex ideas into messaging that mobilizes stakeholders and shapes public outcomes. His work centers on empowering leaders to operate with focus and authority when clarity is hardest to achieve.
